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–+ servings
Baked Turkey
This vintage baked turkey recipe reflects a time when recipes were simple, practical, and focused on flavor without unnecessary complexity. The turkey is first browned in a skillet to develop a rich, savory crust, then finished in the oven to ensure tender, juicy meat. The instructions are minimal but highlight an efficient, hearty way to prepare turkey for family dinners or gatherings. Its straightforward preparation makes it a nostalgic comfort dish, representing an era when recipes were passed from neighbor to neighbor on index cards.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole turkey (about 5–7 lbs, or use turkey parts if desired)
  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil (or butter, for browning)
  • 1 tsp salt (to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: ½ cup broth or drippings (to keep moist while baking)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Turkey

  • Rinse turkey and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Roll the turkey in flour.

Step 2: Brown Turkey

  • Heat oil or butter in a large skillet. Place turkey in the pan and brown evenly on all sides.

Step 3: Transfer to Casserole Dish

  • Once browned, place turkey in a casserole dish. If desired, add a small amount of broth or drippings to keep it moist.

Step 4: Bake Turkey

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, uncovered, until fully cooked and tender.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

  • Remove from oven, let rest 10 minutes before slicing, and serve hot.

Tips

  • Marinating reduces cooking time, as noted on the card
  • Use a covered casserole dish to keep moisture and tenderness
  • Brown the turkey pieces first to deepen flavor before baking
  • Add onions, carrots, or celery to the casserole for aromatic depth
  • Deglaze the browning pan with broth for an easy gravy base
  • Season simply with salt, pepper, and herbs such as sage or thyme
  • Use turkey parts (thighs, drumsticks, breast) for smaller batches
  • Let turkey rest 10 minutes after baking to keep juices in
  • If using skinless turkey, check early to avoid drying out
  • For crispier skin, uncover for the last 10–15 minutes of baking

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalProtein: 40gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.15gCholesterol: 140mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 380mgVitamin A: 50IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.8mg
Keyword American classic, baked turkey, holiday, main course, roast turkey, simple turkey, thanksgiving, vintage recipe
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